About
One of the special things about the Smith Mountain Lake area is the unique shopping experiences to be found. Whether you’re looking for something for yourself, gifts for those back home, a unique dining experience, or just want some new place to explore, Harvest Moon Marketplace is a great choice. From gourmet edibles to wine to quality alpaca clothing to local produce, it is a one-stop shop for all things natural.
Harvest Moon is an agri-marketplace full of locally-sourced items and other natural products from various heritage farms in different counties or states. We made our way there one afternoon and took our time walking around, taking in all the specialty food items, artisan gifts, and clothing made from the fibers of alpacas. They also have a wine garden and an ice cream bar.
Started by the Martinelli family with the goal of creating a neighborhood market that offers high-quality, natural, specialty items in the Smith Mountain Lake area, it has quickly become more of a destination than a simple shopping venue. You can shop, eat, sip wine, and relax here, the perfect way to spend an afternoon when not out on the lake.
The marketplace is open daily between 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. On Sundays, they have shorter hours, from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. Check their schedule also, as they often have themed events, Bluegrass Musician nights, and Farm-to-Table Gourmet dinners. We didn’t have a chance to experience these but look forward to them the next time we come back.
Harvest Moon Marketplace: Fun Facts & Cool Features
A stop at this destination is more of an experience than a shopping trip. One side of the boutique features alpaca clothing, while the other area has gift items and natural grocery items.
The boutique offers a wide range of clothing, including shirts, blouses, dresses, outerwear, hats, and accessories, suitable for men, women, and children. I picked up an alpaca scarf and several pairs of alpaca socks.
The owners of Harvest Moon Marketplace operate an alpaca farm, using fibers from the animals to craft clothing. One of their specialty items is the all-natural alpaca pillows, which come in a variety of sizes.
A walk through the marketplace grocery had us selecting items to take back with us for a delicious meal later in the day. We had to choose from locally-sourced meats, eggs, and bread to start with. We then graduated to the specialty offerings of pot pies, quiches, pierogies, pastas, and soups.
Additionally, you'll find specialty snacks and cheeses, spices, loose teas, gourmet doggie treats, and organic seeds. Natural lotions, soaps, and candles are also for sale, ensuring something for everyone.
Situated under a pavilion, the wine garden is inviting. Here, you can enjoy a wine tasting or sit and sip a glass of wine.
Another feature is the Farmer’s Market featuring locally grown produce from surrounding farms. It's ideal for grabbing veggies to cook back in your Casago rental.
Before leaving, we visited the Ice Cream Bar and ordered two root beer floats and one Moon Pie Sundae. The shop showcases ice cream from a local dairy and was a highlight of our Smith Mountain Lake vacation.